BS EN ISO 14001:1996 - Environmental management systems. Specification with guidance for use
Printed version of this is available at library. To request, please e-mail to referencepk@usm.my and include a copy of this record in your e-mail.
BS EN ISO 14001:1996 is a European standard that specifies requirements for environmental management systems (EMS) and provides guidance for their use. This standard is part of the ISO 14000 series, which focuses on environmental management and sustainability.
Here are the key points covered by BS EN ISO 14001:1996:
The standard is designed to assist organizations in establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving an environmental management system. The EMS is a structured framework that helps organizations manage their environmental responsibilities effectively.
Environmental Policy: It requires organizations to establish and maintain an environmental policy that reflects their commitment to environmental protection and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Planning: Organizations are expected to set environmental objectives and targets, taking into account the significant environmental aspects of their activities, products, and services. This involves identifying potential environmental impacts and developing plans to mitigate or prevent them.
Implementation and Operation: The standard outlines the necessary processes and procedures to implement and operate the EMS effectively. This includes resource allocation, roles and responsibilities, communication, and documentation of the system.
Monitoring and Measurement: Organizations must establish a system for monitoring and measuring their environmental performance. This involves collecting data to track progress toward environmental objectives and targets.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: The standard emphasizes the importance of compliance with applicable environmental laws, regulations, and other requirements. Organizations are expected to keep abreast of changes in environmental legislation and ensure compliance.
Environmental Management Programs: The standard encourages organizations to develop and maintain environmental management programs to address specific environmental aspects and associated impacts.
Auditing and Review: Regular internal and external audits of the EMS are required to assess its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Management reviews are conducted to ensure the system continues to meet its objectives.
Documentation and Records: Organizations are required to maintain appropriate documentation and records related to their EMS to demonstrate conformity and facilitate audits.
Continuous Improvement: The standard promotes a culture of continuous improvement in environmental performance. Organizations are expected to take corrective and preventive actions to address non-conformities and improve their EMS.
BS EN ISO 14001:1996 provides a structured framework for organizations to address their environmental responsibilities systematically. It is intended to help organizations reduce their environmental impacts, achieve regulatory compliance, and demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship to stakeholders.
Please note that this standard may have been updated or revised since its publication in 1996. Organizations interested in implementing an EMS should refer to the most current version of ISO 14001 to ensure compliance with the latest requirements and best practices in environmental management.
